Five College History of Science
Courses

SMITH

ANT 135/ARC 135 Introduction to Archaeology

Maxine Oland

M W 2:40-4:00

The study of past cultures and societies through their material remains. How archaeologists use different field methods, analytical techniques, and theoretical approaches to investigate, reconstruct, and learn from the past. Data from settlement surveys, site excavations, and artifact analysis are used to address economic, social, political, and ideological questions across time and space. Course taught from an anthropological perspective, exploring key transitions in human prehistory, including the origins of food production, social inequality, and state-level societies across the globe. Relevance of archaeological practice in modern political, economic, and social contexts is explored.

ANT 248 Medical Anthropology

Donald Joralemon

T Th 9:0-10:20

The cultural construction of illness through an examination of systems of diagnosis, classification, and therapy in both non-Western and Western societies. Special attention given to the role of the traditional healer. The anthropological contribution to international health care and to the training of physicians in the United States.

AST 102 Sky and Time

Suzan Edwards/Meg Thacher

Lecture T 1:00-3:50/Lab W 7:30-9:00

This course explores the astronomical roots of clocks and calendars, and relies on both real and simulated observations of the sun, moon and stars. In addition to weekly projects based on collecting and interpreting data, students independently research a clock and a calendar from another culture, either ancient or modern. There are no prerequisites, and students from all disciplines and backgrounds are welcome.

FYS 191 Sense and Essence in Nature

Lâle Aka Burk (Chemistry)

FY SEMINAR M W 1:10-2:30

This course will focus on fragrant plants with emphasis on their science as well as their use and economic significance in different parts of the world. Throughout history aromatic plant materials have been utilized as cures, perfumes and flavorings, and their extensive use continues at the present. The chemistry, botany and bioactivities of these natural products will provide the scientific content for the course. Their consideration in historical and cultural contexts, and also their depiction in literature and in art will provide an interdisciplinary approach to the subject matter.

PHI 224 History and Philosophy of Science

Jeffry Ramsey

M W 1:10-2:30

Case studies in the history of science are used to examine philosophical issues as they arise in scientific practice. Topics include the relative importance of theories, models and experiments; realism; explanation; confirmation of theories and hypotheses; causes; and the role of values in science.